Drug induced methaemoglobinaemia

Summary Acquired methaemoglobinaemia can be caused by the oxidising effect of a number of different drugs. Prescribed drugs that cause methaemoglobinaemia include local anaesthetics, dapsone, sulphonamides and primaquine. Recreational drugs such as amyl and isobutyl nitrite (‘poppers’) and adulterants in cocaine are also well known to cause methaemoglobinaemia. Low concentrations of methaemoglobin do not require treatment, but higher concentrations can be fatal. When indicated, methylthioninium chloride is the treatment of choice. More complicated cases should be discussed with a local poisons centre.
Source: Adverse Drug Reaction Bulletin - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Invited Review Article Source Type: research